Emma Scott – Violin Teacher, Piano Teacher

I teach violin and piano. Being born into a family of musicians in southern Delaware, I grew up in a house that was constantly filled with the sound of music. Having parents who are professional music teachers, and siblings who share my passion for music, I have always had the support and encouragement to pursue my own dream of becoming a performer and teacher. At age 4, I began taking piano lessons with my father, and later, at age 12, began studying violin at the Music School of Delaware. At age 13, I continued my piano studies with award-winning pianist, Dr. Oleg Maslov. While at the Music School of Delaware, I was recognized as an Honors Certificate Student, receiving many awards for both violin and piano. I served as concertmaster in the Delaware Youth Symphony and, later, as a first violin in the Temple University Symphony Orchestra.

In 2012, I moved to Philadelphia to study violin with world re-known violinist, Dr. Vladimir Dyo. In May of 2016, I graduated from Boyer College of Music and Dance, Temple University, with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Violin Performance. I have performed as a soloist, in group concerts, and many family concerts all over Delaware, Maryland, and areas of Philadelphia. I also enjoy playing, weekly, in my church band, as well as accompanying friends in various performance opportunities. Over the years, I have been selected to travel and participate in international music festivals including the Bowdoin International Music Festival, the ARIA International Summer Academy, and the International Music Institute and Festival USA. Teaching for over 5 years, I have gained a love and passion for sharing my knowledge of music with others. I enjoy teaching students of all ages and skill levels.

When did you begin playing music, and why?:

My father is a piano teacher, and was excited start me on piano at an early age, getting me started at age 4. Being determined to learn, and after insisting on it for many years, I began studying violin when I was 12 years old.

What are your personal goals as a musician?:

My goals as a musician are to make sure that I am always in a position to inspire and encourage others in their musical journeys, and to always seek inspiration from others as I continue to make music.

Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?:

My piano teacher was constantly battling with me to release the tension in my body and relax when I played difficult, technical passages. I remember one day, in my lesson, my body completely relaxed, and I played a technically demanding piece of the music with ease and comfort. I remember this moment was eye-opening and inspiring. From that point on, I understood what it meant to play with relaxation, and have been able to incorporate that into my playing to this day.

What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?:

My college violin professor once told me that playing an instrument and making music should never feel unnatural. Making music should feel like an extension of yourself; it should feel as if it is a part of you.

What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?:

The most challenging moment in learning, for me, was when I realized that our work, as musicians, is never done. We must constantly expand our knowledge and our ability, never giving up on the opportunity to work harder and grow more.

What is your biggest musical achievement?:

My biggest musical achievement may seem strange to some people; it is not a difficult piece or an outstanding performance experience that I see as my greatest accomplishment. Instead, it is when I played a simple tune on my violin for a group of orphans who had never heard the sound of a violin before. I have had the privilege to travel and bring my music to primitive parts of the world, in which there is no access to instruments or musical resources. Being the first person to bring the sound and joy of this music to a whole group of curious children was the greatest thing I have ever experienced.

Favorite thing about teaching?:

My favorite thing about teaching is seeing my students happy with the music they are producing. When my students play their instrument, with a smile on their face, and say “I liked that!”, it brings me great joy. I love to see them find the ability within themselves to produce something they think is beautiful.

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?:

Stay positive! Learning music can be a long and demanding process at times. When you remember that producing music is a beautiful and wonderful gift, it helps us remember that the hard times are worth it.

Recent Testimonials

I learned to play a guitar as a kid and then soon after college, I lost the habit and joy of playing. I would pick it up every now and then but would drop it again soon after. I decided to take lessons again to give me the structure and routine to reestablish the habit of playing. And after a few months of learning from Joey, I have a profound better understanding of the instrument, method techniques that have risen my skill to a new level, and most importantly, a renewed love for playing music. Joey is a great communicator who understood where I was with guitar, and where I wanted to go, and implemented a simple and effective lesson plan that I'm able to use in daily practice. I couldn't be happier with my experience and would recommend his services to any student at any level.

Adam S.

Joe is a fantastic guitar teacher. My son and husband both take lessons from him, and we see him at our house every week. No matter what, he is always cheerful and kind. He is one of my favorite people in Philadelphia. He singlehandedly eased our transition to Philly from Seattle and we are so grateful. He is a true gem, not only as a teacher and musician, but as a person. He is flexible, creative, hard-working--an all around standout.

Gwen G.

I have nothing but praise for Alex. I was somewhat anxious trying to pick up a new hobby playing the drums. My nervousness dissipated quickly with Alex's guidance. He tailors each lesson with handwritten exercises, appealing both to my interests and skill level, and I always leave feeling like my skills have improved.

Pat D.

Joe is a great instructor. He gears the lessons to my child’s interests to keep her motivated. He makes her laugh yet keeps her focus on the music. He is flexible with lesson times and with makeup sessions. My daughter has learned not only to play the guitar but to enjoy practicing.

Debbie N.

While searching the web for a music teacher earlier this year I thankfully came across Philly Music Lessons. I already had some experience being in a few bands and taken some basic music theory background, but I was looking to expand my horizons in both theory and songwriting. I wasn't sure if I was going to find a place that would offer more than just the the basic cookie cutter Guitar or Piano lessons, but after a few lessons I knew this was going to be a good fit. My first week of lessons I also tried out a well-known local guitar shop to compare, and needless to say Philly Music Lessons won by a long shot. Checking out their website they seemed to have a well rounded staff from beginner to more specific learning styles (like me). They matched me up with a really great teacher... 6 months in and can't recommend this place enough. I have been able to enhance my skills at Music Theory and Analysis, Song Structure and Composition for both Piano and Guitar and learn all the topics I'm interested in.

Mark S.

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